Bhasmasur (Bhasma = Destroy, Asur = Demon) is a demon who hails from Hindu mythology. He was a devotee of Lord Shiva (A Hindu God) and performed great penance to please the Lord so he could ask for a boon. When asked what he wanted, Bhasmasur said that he wanted to have the ability that when he placed his hand on someone’s head, they would be burned to ashes. Lord Shiva thoughtlessly granted him the wish. As soon as he got the power, Bhasmasur tried to test it on Lord Shiva, who had to run to save his life. While running, Lord Shiva appealed to Lord Vishnu (another Hindu God). Lord Vishnu tricked Bhasmasur into placing his hand on his own head, thus causing the demon to burn himself.